Testing for Asbestos

Asbestos is a mineral made up of long thin fibers that look similar to fiberglass. Because of the strengthening, heat resistance and soundproofing qualities, asbestos was used to make pipe insulation, ceiling and floor tile, paints and coatings, caulking, fire resistant fabrics and clothing, and brake pads. It is a health hazard in over 840,000 homes, offices and schools. Asbestos exposure over a long period of time can cause lung cancer. An estimated 20,000 people will die each year for the next 30 years from asbestos exposure.

If uncoated, asbestos can be wet and turns to an oatmeal like consistency. Unfortunately, after asbestos has been painted, the water does not reach the fibers. Scraping and construction send asbestos particles into the air. Even covering the texture with a second layer of wall board shakes fibers loose. All removal should normally be left up to professionals. There are now coatings that can enhance the encapsulation of asbestos to walls and ceilings that are highly effective in sealing it in. Naturally, future renovations and construction may break up the surface and will still release asbestos fibers.

The Professional Asbestos Test Kit includes 2 sample collectors and requires a $15 lab analysis fee. Popcorn and textured ceilings, ceiling tiles, floor tiles and pipe insulation should be checked. A simple to use laboratory test identifies asbestos fibers to as little as 1% content by weight and is more sensitive than EPA guidelines using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM). Normal proficiency results returned within 2 weeks.